GCA seeks Rising Stars Academy nominations
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GCA Rising Stars winner finalists and winner Louise Lockwood centre
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GCA Inspector and Rising Stars Academy mentor, Gordon Emslie
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Westland Horticulture-sponsored GCA Rising Stars winner Louise Lockwood
The Garden Centre Association (GCA) is urging members to submit nominations for its new-style Rising Stars Academy 2026 before the February 28 deadline.
Sponsored by Westland Horticulture, the revised programme offers participants expert mentoring, training masterclasses and visits to key industry locations and events.
GCA Inspector and Rising Stars mentor Gordon Emslie said the academy has evolved to reflect current industry challenges, combining site visits with skills-based training to help garden centres strengthen their teams.
Eligible candidates should work below management level and be considered a rising star, or show strong potential to become one. They must also be available to attend several events throughout the year.
Westland Horticulture’s Head of Content, Gina Lewis, said the partnership aims to support the next generation of industry talent through hands-on learning and training in areas such as marketing, communication and merchandising.
Successful candidates will begin the programme on March 11 at Westland in Peterborough. The opening session will introduce delegates to the academy and include training on standards in garden centres and a communications and marketing masterclass.
GCA Chief Executive Peter Burks said the academy is designed to build confidence, capability and creativity, giving delegates practical learning they can take back to their businesses immediately.
He added that garden centres with promising team members should nominate them now to ensure they do not miss out on the opportunity.